Lost Lake Trail

Access:

Travel south approximately 6 miles on NM State Highway 578 to the junction of Middle Fork and East Fork. The pavement ends here. Take the road to the right, Forest Road 58, for approximately 1.1 miles to a parking area. No turnaround or parking is available beyond this point. There is an outhouse at the parking area.

Attractions and Considerations:

Foot and horseback travelers begin at the parking area along the Jeep road to Middle Fork Lake. Both sides of the road are fenced in this area to prevent trespassing on the surrounding land. Visitors must stay on the road. After ¼ mile the road forks at the creek crossing. The fork going straight is gated and closed to the public. Take the fork to the left (Forest Road 487) and cross the creek at the footbridge. The elevation at the creek crossing is 9,640 feet. For approximately one mile you will follow the trail along the east side of the creek. At times you follow the Jeep trail as it switches back and forth on its way to Middle Fork Lake.

You will reach the Lost Lake Trail junction at a river crossing. The trail is signed and is to your left. It switchbacks through Douglas-fir and white fir stands up the slope to some breathtaking vista points. After about two miles, the trail leaves the forest and crosses a saddle on the ridge. The country opens up into small meadows with some aspen and scattered stands of spruce. Continue up through these lovely openings across several rock outcroppings.

About one-half mile before Lost Lake you will cross into the Wheeler Peak Wilderness. The lake is at an elevation of 11,495ft. Fishing is permitted and a state license is required. Lost Lake is stocked by helicopter with native cutthroat trout. Camping and campfires are not permitted along the lake shore. Please pick a campsite at least 300 feet from the lake.